A method and apparatus for an adaptive search user interface is provided. An interface is provided that returns search results upon receiving each alphanumeric character of a search query term. Correlations of prefixes of alphanumeric characters and search results selected from previous searches are stored in a correlation matrix. Based upon the correlations in the correlation matrix, relevance rankings for search results with respect to the prefixes of alphanumeric characters are updated. Search results may be grouped based upon one or more common traits. Relevance rankings are also updated based upon the rate of change of selections recorded for a search result.
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1. A method, comprising: receiving one or more alphanumeric characters from a first user, wherein as each alphanumeric character is received: generating a prefix from the one or more received alphanumeric characters; generating a plurality of search results corresponding to the prefix; determining corresponding relevance rankings for each search result based on a correlation matrix, the correlation matrix comprising for the prefix a correlation between a prior selection of a first one of the search results by the first user in response to the first user previously providing the prefix and a correlation between a prior selection of a second one of the search results by a second user in response to the second user previously providing the prefix; and sorting the plurality of search results in an order based at least in part upon the corresponding relevance ranking for each search result.
This invention relates to an improved search system that dynamically ranks search results based on user behavior and historical correlations. The method enhances search accuracy by leveraging prior user interactions to refine relevance rankings. When a user inputs alphanumeric characters, the system generates a prefix from the input and retrieves a set of search results matching that prefix. Each result is ranked based on a correlation matrix that tracks two key factors: the frequency with which the first user has previously selected a particular result after entering the same prefix, and the frequency with which other users have selected the same result after entering the same prefix. The system then sorts the results based on these relevance rankings, prioritizing options that align with both the user's historical behavior and broader user trends. This approach improves search efficiency by adapting to individual and collective usage patterns, reducing the need for manual refinement of search queries. The method is particularly useful in applications where users frequently search for similar items, such as e-commerce platforms, digital libraries, or autocomplete systems.
2. The method of claim 1 further comprising: receiving a selection from a multimedia device of a particular search result from the plurality of search results; and in response to receiving the selection of the particular search result, updating the corresponding relevance ranking, in a data storage structure, of the particular search result selected relative to the prefix.
This invention relates to improving search result relevance in multimedia systems by dynamically adjusting relevance rankings based on user interactions. The problem addressed is the static nature of traditional search algorithms, which do not adapt to user preferences or behavior over time, leading to suboptimal search results. The method involves a multimedia device presenting a plurality of search results to a user, each result associated with a relevance ranking stored in a data structure. The system receives a user selection of a particular search result from the displayed results. In response to this selection, the system updates the relevance ranking of the selected result relative to the search prefix (the initial input query) in the data storage structure. This adjustment ensures that frequently selected results for a given prefix are prioritized in future searches, improving personalization and accuracy. The method may also include generating the initial search results by comparing the prefix to a database of multimedia content, where each entry is associated with metadata. The comparison may involve matching the prefix to metadata fields such as titles, descriptions, or tags. The system may further filter results based on user preferences or historical data before presenting them to the user. The dynamic ranking adjustment ensures that the search system learns from user behavior, refining its output over time. This approach enhances user satisfaction by delivering more relevant results without requiring explicit feedback mechanisms.
3. The method as recited in claim 2 , wherein the data storage structure comprises a matrix which stores mappings of each search result to a corresponding relevance ranking.
A method for organizing and ranking search results involves storing the results in a data structure that maps each result to a corresponding relevance ranking. The data structure is a matrix, where each entry in the matrix represents a search result and its associated relevance score. This approach allows for efficient retrieval and ranking of search results based on their relevance to a given query. The matrix structure enables quick access to relevance rankings, facilitating the sorting and presentation of results in a prioritized order. By maintaining a direct mapping between search results and their relevance scores, the method ensures that the most relevant results are easily identifiable and can be displayed prominently. This technique is particularly useful in search engines and information retrieval systems where the relevance of results is a critical factor in user experience and efficiency. The matrix-based storage allows for scalable and organized management of large datasets, ensuring that relevance rankings are accurately maintained and readily available for processing. This method enhances the performance of search systems by optimizing the way search results are stored and ranked, leading to faster and more accurate retrieval of relevant information.
4. The method as recited in claim 2 , wherein the receiving a selection from a multimedia device of a particular search result from the plurality of search results comprises receiving a command input at a digital video recorder that indicates a particular level of interest of a user.
This invention relates to multimedia search systems, specifically improving user interaction with search results on digital video recorders (DVRs). The problem addressed is the lack of granularity in user feedback when selecting search results, which limits the system's ability to refine future recommendations based on user preferences. The method involves a multimedia device, such as a DVR, presenting a plurality of search results to a user. When the user selects a particular result, the system interprets this selection as a command input that conveys a specific level of interest. This level of interest is used to adjust subsequent search queries or recommendations, enhancing personalization. The system may also analyze additional factors, such as the time spent on a selected result or the frequency of similar selections, to further refine the user's interest profile. The invention builds on a broader method where the multimedia device generates search queries based on user input, retrieves relevant results, and displays them. The selection of a result triggers the interest-level analysis, which may involve categorizing the selection as high, medium, or low interest. This feedback loop allows the system to dynamically adapt to user behavior, improving the relevance of future search results. The method may also include storing the interest data for long-term profiling or sharing it with other devices in a networked environment.
5. The method as recited in claim 2 , further comprising: upon receiving the selection from the multimedia device of the particular search result from the plurality of search results, generating instructions for display of a plurality of content providers upon which the particular search result is available.
This invention relates to multimedia search systems that retrieve and display search results for content available across multiple providers. The problem addressed is the difficulty users face in identifying where specific multimedia content (e.g., movies, TV shows, music) is available for streaming or purchase, as content may be distributed across numerous providers with no centralized discovery mechanism. The method involves receiving a search query from a multimedia device, processing the query to identify a plurality of search results corresponding to multimedia content, and displaying the search results on the multimedia device. Each search result represents content available from one or more content providers. Upon user selection of a particular search result, the system generates and displays a list of content providers where that specific content is available. This allows users to quickly determine their viewing or purchasing options without navigating multiple provider platforms individually. The system may also prioritize providers based on user preferences, subscription status, or other relevance factors. The invention streamlines content discovery by consolidating availability information in a single interface, reducing the time and effort required to locate and access desired multimedia content.
6. The method as recited in claim 5 , wherein causing displaying of a plurality of content providers upon which the particular search result is available comprises: determining if each of the plurality of content providers has been preselected by a user; in response to the determination that at least one particular content provider of the each of the plurality of content providers has been preselected by the user, generating instructions for display of the particular content provider upon which the particular search result is available.
This invention relates to search result presentation systems, specifically improving user experience by filtering and displaying content providers based on user preferences. The problem addressed is the overwhelming number of content providers offering the same search result, which can confuse users and reduce efficiency. The solution involves dynamically filtering and displaying only preselected content providers for a given search result, ensuring users see only relevant options. The method determines whether each content provider associated with a search result has been preselected by the user. If at least one content provider is preselected, the system generates display instructions to show only those preselected providers for the result. This ensures users interact only with trusted or preferred sources, streamlining the search process. The system may also handle cases where no preselections exist, potentially defaulting to a broader set of providers or prompting the user to make selections. The invention enhances search efficiency by reducing clutter and aligning results with user preferences, improving decision-making and satisfaction. It applies to digital search platforms, including web browsers, app stores, and media libraries, where multiple providers may offer the same content. The core innovation lies in dynamically filtering providers based on user preselections, ensuring a personalized and streamlined search experience.
7. The method as recited in claim 1 , wherein the corresponding relevance ranking for each search result is further based on a content category to which each search result belongs.
A system and method for improving search result relevance ranking by incorporating content categorization. The technology addresses the challenge of delivering search results that are not only keyword-matched but also contextually relevant to the user's query. Traditional search engines often rank results based solely on keyword frequency or popularity, which can lead to irrelevant or misleading results. This invention enhances relevance ranking by analyzing the content category of each search result and adjusting its ranking based on category-specific relevance metrics. The method involves processing a user's search query and retrieving a set of potential search results. Each result is then categorized into a predefined content category, such as news, academic research, product listings, or multimedia. The relevance ranking of each result is adjusted based on its category, ensuring that results from more relevant categories are prioritized. For example, a query about a scientific concept may rank academic papers higher than general web pages, while a product search may prioritize e-commerce listings over informational articles. This categorization-based ranking improves the precision of search results by aligning them more closely with the user's likely intent. The system may also use machine learning to refine category relevance over time, adapting to user behavior and feedback. The overall goal is to provide a more intuitive and accurate search experience by leveraging content categorization as a key factor in relevance determination.
8. The method as recited in claim 1 , wherein each search result of the plurality of search results comprises a graphical indicator indicating a type of content associated with each search result.
A method for enhancing search result presentation involves displaying a plurality of search results, where each result includes a graphical indicator that visually represents the type of content associated with that result. The graphical indicators provide users with an immediate visual cue about the nature of the content, such as whether it is a document, image, video, or other media type. This improves user experience by allowing quick identification of relevant content without requiring additional interaction. The method may also include filtering or categorizing search results based on content type, further streamlining the search process. The graphical indicators are dynamically generated and displayed alongside each search result, ensuring clarity and consistency in presentation. This approach addresses the problem of users having to manually inspect each result to determine its content type, reducing cognitive load and improving search efficiency. The method is applicable to various search systems, including web search engines, enterprise search tools, and specialized databases, where content diversity requires clear differentiation.
9. The method of claim 1 further comprising: receiving a selection from a multimedia device of a particular search result from the plurality of search results; and in response to completion of a predefined time interval, updating the corresponding relevance ranking, in a data storage structure, of the particular search result selected relative to the prefix.
This invention relates to improving search result relevance in multimedia systems by dynamically adjusting relevance rankings based on user interactions. The system monitors user selections of search results in response to a prefix or partial query input. When a user selects a particular search result from a displayed list, the system tracks this selection and, after a predefined time interval, updates the relevance ranking of that search result in a data storage structure. The ranking update ensures that frequently selected results for a given prefix are prioritized in future searches, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of the search process. The method may also involve generating an initial set of search results based on the prefix, displaying these results, and allowing the user to refine the search by selecting from the displayed options. The system dynamically adjusts relevance rankings to reflect real-time user preferences, improving the overall search experience by surfacing more relevant content. This approach is particularly useful in multimedia devices where quick and accurate search results are critical for user satisfaction.
10. The method as recited in claim 1 , wherein the corresponding relevance ranking for each search result are increased for a newly available content.
A method for improving search result relevance rankings in a search system involves dynamically adjusting the relevance scores of search results when new content becomes available. The method applies to search engines or information retrieval systems that rank results based on relevance to a user's query. The problem addressed is that newly available content may initially receive lower relevance rankings due to factors like limited user interaction data or lower authority metrics, even if the content is highly relevant to a query. The method increases the relevance rankings of search results associated with newly available content to ensure they are prominently displayed to users, improving the visibility of fresh and potentially valuable information. The adjustment may be based on factors such as recency, content quality, or other relevance indicators. The method may also involve monitoring user engagement with the newly available content to refine the ranking adjustments over time. This approach helps search systems balance freshness and relevance, ensuring users receive up-to-date and highly relevant results.
11. A non-transitory computer readable medium having instructions encoded thereon that when executed by control circuitry causes the control circuitry to: receive one or more alphanumeric characters, wherein as each alphanumeric character is received: generate a prefix from the one or more received alphanumeric characters; generate a plurality of search results corresponding to the prefix; determine corresponding relevance rankings for each search result based on a correlation matrix, the correlation matrix comprising for the prefix a correlation between a prior selection of a first one of the search results by the first user in response to the first user previously providing the prefix and a correlation between a prior selection of a second one of the search results by a second user in response to the second user previously providing the prefix; and sort the plurality of search results in an order based at least in part upon the corresponding relevance ranking for each search result.
This invention relates to an improved search system for alphanumeric input, particularly for predictive or autocomplete search functions. The problem addressed is the inefficiency of traditional search ranking methods that rely solely on individual user behavior or generic relevance metrics, often failing to account for broader user patterns or contextual correlations. The system operates by receiving alphanumeric input character-by-character. As each character is entered, it generates a prefix from the accumulated input. Using this prefix, the system retrieves a plurality of search results. To rank these results, the system evaluates a correlation matrix that tracks two key correlations: first, the likelihood that a user who previously entered the same prefix selected a particular search result, and second, the likelihood that other users who entered the same prefix selected a different search result. This matrix captures both individual and collective user behavior to determine relevance. The search results are then sorted based on these relevance rankings, ensuring that the most contextually appropriate options are prioritized. This approach enhances search accuracy by leveraging aggregated user behavior data, improving the relevance of suggestions for both individual and collective search patterns. The system dynamically updates rankings as input progresses, ensuring real-time adaptability to user input.
12. The non-transitory computer readable medium as recited in claim 11 , wherein the control circuitry is further configured to: receive a selection from a multimedia device of a particular search result from the plurality of search results; and in response to receiving the selection of the particular search result, update the corresponding relevance ranking, in a data storage structure, of the particular search result selected relative to the prefix.
This invention relates to improving search result relevance in multimedia systems by dynamically adjusting relevance rankings based on user interactions. The system operates in a multimedia environment where users search for content using prefixes or partial queries. A search engine generates multiple search results in response to a user's input, each result having an initial relevance ranking. The system includes control circuitry that monitors user selections of search results. When a user selects a particular search result from the displayed options, the system updates the relevance ranking of that result in a data storage structure. This adjustment is specific to the prefix used in the search, meaning future searches using the same or similar prefixes will prioritize previously selected results. The system may also track multiple user interactions over time to refine relevance rankings further. The goal is to enhance search accuracy and efficiency by learning from user behavior, ensuring that frequently chosen results for a given prefix appear more prominently in subsequent searches. This approach is particularly useful in multimedia applications where users often search for specific content types, such as videos, music, or documents, and benefit from personalized relevance adjustments.
13. The non-transitory computer readable medium as recited in claim 12 , wherein the data storage structure comprises a matrix which stores mappings of each search result to a corresponding relevance ranking.
A system and method for organizing and retrieving search results using a data storage structure that enhances relevance ranking. The technology addresses the challenge of efficiently managing and prioritizing large volumes of search results to improve user experience. The system employs a matrix-based data storage structure that maps each search result to a corresponding relevance ranking. This matrix allows for dynamic adjustment of relevance scores based on user interactions, query context, or other factors, ensuring that the most relevant results are prominently displayed. The structure supports efficient retrieval and updating of relevance rankings, enabling real-time adjustments to search result prioritization. By storing relevance rankings in a matrix format, the system facilitates faster access and modification compared to traditional linear or hierarchical storage methods. The invention improves search result accuracy and user satisfaction by dynamically adapting to user behavior and query context, providing a more personalized and efficient search experience. The matrix-based approach also enables scalable handling of large datasets, making it suitable for applications requiring high-performance search capabilities.
14. The non-transitory computer readable medium as recited in claim 12 , wherein the receiving a selection from a multimedia device of a particular search result from the plurality of search results comprises receiving a command input at a digital video recorder that indicates a particular level of interest of a user.
This invention relates to multimedia search systems, specifically improving user interaction with search results in digital video recorders (DVRs) or similar devices. The problem addressed is the lack of granularity in user feedback when selecting search results, which limits the system's ability to refine future recommendations based on user preferences. The system involves a non-transitory computer-readable medium storing instructions for a multimedia search process. When a user performs a search, the system generates a plurality of search results and displays them on a multimedia device, such as a DVR. The user can then select a particular result, and this selection is received by the system. The selection includes metadata indicating the user's level of interest in the selected content, such as high, medium, or low interest. This metadata is used to refine future search results, improving personalization. The system may also track additional context, such as the time of selection or the user's viewing history, to further enhance recommendation accuracy. The instructions may also include steps for adjusting the display of search results based on the user's interest level, such as prioritizing highly favored content. This approach ensures that the multimedia device adapts to user behavior over time, providing more relevant search results.
15. The non-transitory computer readable medium as recited in claim 12 , wherein the control circuitry is further configured to: upon receiving the selection from the multimedia device of the particular search result from the plurality of search results, generate instructions for display of a plurality of content providers upon which the particular search result is available.
This invention relates to a system for enhancing multimedia content search and selection. The problem addressed is the difficulty users face in identifying and accessing desired multimedia content across multiple content providers. The invention provides a solution by improving the search and selection process through a user interface that displays available content providers for a selected search result. The system includes control circuitry configured to receive a search query from a multimedia device and generate a plurality of search results based on the query. Each search result corresponds to multimedia content available from one or more content providers. When a user selects a particular search result, the system generates instructions to display a list of content providers where that content is available. This allows the user to easily compare and choose from different providers offering the same content. The system may also include additional features such as displaying metadata associated with the search results, such as content descriptions, ratings, or availability status. The control circuitry may further be configured to prioritize or filter the displayed content providers based on user preferences, subscription status, or other criteria. The goal is to streamline the content discovery and selection process, making it more efficient for users to find and access multimedia content.
16. The non-transitory computer readable medium as recited in claim 15 , wherein, the instruction for causing displaying of a plurality of content providers upon which the particular search result is available, further causes the control circuitry to: determine if each of the plurality of content providers has been preselected by a user; in response to the determination that at least one particular content provider of the each of the plurality of content providers has been preselected by the user, generate instructions for display of the particular content provider upon which the particular search result is available.
This invention relates to a system for displaying search results from multiple content providers, addressing the challenge of efficiently presenting relevant content while respecting user preferences. The system filters and displays search results based on user preselections of preferred content providers. When a user initiates a search, the system identifies a plurality of content providers offering the search result and checks whether each provider has been preselected by the user. If at least one preselected provider is found, the system generates instructions to display only those preselected providers alongside the search result, ensuring the user sees content from trusted or preferred sources. This approach enhances user experience by reducing irrelevant or unwanted content while maintaining access to desired information. The system operates through control circuitry executing instructions stored on a non-transitory computer-readable medium, dynamically adjusting the display based on user preferences to streamline content discovery. The invention improves search result presentation by prioritizing user-selected providers, making it particularly useful in environments with diverse content sources.
17. The non-transitory computer readable medium as recited in claim 11 , wherein the corresponding relevance ranking for each search result is further based on a content category to which each search result belongs.
A system and method for improving search result relevance ranking by incorporating content categories. The invention addresses the problem of generic search engines returning results that may not align with a user's specific interests or the context of their query. The system enhances relevance ranking by analyzing the content category of each search result and adjusting its ranking based on this categorization. This ensures that results are not only keyword-matched but also contextually relevant to the user's needs. The method involves processing search queries, retrieving potential results, and then refining the ranking by evaluating the content category of each result. The content category may be determined through metadata, semantic analysis, or other classification techniques. By integrating this categorization into the ranking algorithm, the system provides more accurate and user-specific search results. This approach is particularly useful in domains where content is highly specialized, such as academic research, e-commerce, or industry-specific databases. The invention improves search efficiency and user satisfaction by delivering results that are both relevant and contextually appropriate.
18. The non-transitory computer readable medium as recited in claim 11 , wherein each search result of the plurality of search results comprises a graphical indicator indicating a type of content associated with each search result.
A system and method for enhancing search result presentation in digital content retrieval involves displaying search results with graphical indicators that visually represent the type of content associated with each result. The system processes search queries to retrieve relevant content from a database, where the content may include documents, images, videos, or other media types. Each search result is analyzed to determine its content type, and a corresponding graphical indicator is generated and displayed alongside the result. These indicators may include icons, color codes, or other visual elements that allow users to quickly identify the nature of the content without needing to open or inspect each result individually. The graphical indicators improve user experience by reducing the time and effort required to assess the relevance and format of search results, particularly in environments where multiple content types are mixed. The system may also support customizable indicator styles or user preferences for adjusting the appearance of these visual cues. This approach is particularly useful in applications such as enterprise search, digital libraries, or multimedia databases where efficient content identification is critical.
19. The non-transitory computer readable medium as recited in claim 11 , wherein the control circuitry is further configured to: receive a selection from a multimedia device of a particular search result from the plurality of search results; and in response to completion of a predefined time interval, update the corresponding relevance ranking, in a data storage structure, of the particular search result selected relative to the prefix.
This invention relates to improving search result relevance in multimedia systems by dynamically adjusting relevance rankings based on user interactions. The problem addressed is the static nature of traditional search algorithms, which do not adapt to user preferences over time, leading to suboptimal search results. The system includes a multimedia device and control circuitry configured to process search queries, generate search results, and rank them based on relevance. When a user selects a particular search result from the displayed results, the system monitors the interaction. After a predefined time interval, the system updates the relevance ranking of the selected search result in a data storage structure. This adjustment ensures that frequently selected results for a given search prefix are prioritized in future searches, improving personalization and accuracy. The control circuitry also manages the data storage structure, which maintains relevance rankings for search results associated with different search prefixes. By dynamically updating these rankings based on user behavior, the system refines its search algorithm to better match user preferences, enhancing the overall search experience. The predefined time interval ensures that the updates are not overly sensitive to transient interactions, providing a balanced approach to relevance adjustment. This method improves search efficiency and user satisfaction by adapting to individual usage patterns.
20. The non-transitory computer readable medium as recited in claim 11 , wherein the corresponding relevance ranking for each search result are increased for a newly available content.
This invention relates to search result ranking systems, specifically improving the visibility of newly available content in search results. The problem addressed is that traditional search engines often prioritize older, established content over newer information, which can be problematic for users seeking the most recent updates or breaking news. The solution involves dynamically adjusting relevance rankings for search results to favor newly available content, ensuring that users receive timely and up-to-date information. The system operates by analyzing the freshness of content, where "newly available" content is defined as information that has recently been published or updated. When a search query is processed, the system identifies search results that match the query and determines whether any of those results correspond to newly available content. For these results, the system increases their relevance ranking, effectively boosting their position in the search results list. This adjustment ensures that newer content is more likely to appear prominently, even if it may not yet have the same authority or backlink profile as older, more established content. The system may also incorporate additional factors, such as user engagement metrics or content quality indicators, to refine the ranking process. However, the core innovation lies in the dynamic adjustment of relevance rankings based on content freshness, providing users with more timely and relevant search results. This approach is particularly useful in fields where information rapidly evolves, such as news, technology, or financial markets.
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October 24, 2018
March 1, 2022
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